Top Refinery Operator Training Programs in Wisconsin

This guide explains Wisconsin training programs for refinery operators, outlines what you will learn, and explains how to enroll. Local refineries, such as Superior Refining Company LLC in Superior, offer opportunities for practical experience.

Refinery operator training programs in Wisconsin teach safety, practical skills, and theory. They help students work safely in refineries and respond to emergencies. Many programs include online courses, internships, and live events. The job market is strong because retirements create new openings.

Mid‑State Technical College — Automation & Instrumentation Technology (A.A.S.)

• Address: 500 32nd Street NorthWisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin 54494
• Tel: 715 422 5300

Two‑year, in‑person associate degree that develops the skills to measure and control industrial processes—from designing and installing control systems to calibrating, troubleshooting, and repairing the instrumentation plants rely on every day. Training runs at the AMETA™ Center in Stevens Point.

Program highlights

• Format & pace: In‑person, daytime schedule; full‑time or part‑time options; two years / 60 credits with Fall or Spring start dates.
• What you’ll learn: Apply math and physics to design, install, calibrate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair industrial control systems using a range of instrumentation.
• Hands‑on learning: Access to state‑of‑the‑art equipment plus field trips and summer internships at facilities where process control systems drive operations.
• Core sequence: Instrumentation Principles; Process Equipment; Process Measurements & Control Strategies; PLCs (Beginning/Advanced); Industrial Networking; HMI & Robotics; Process Troubleshooting; Process Systems.
• Career paths: Instrument Technician, Process Control Technician, PLC Technician, Electrical & Instrumentation Technician.

Milwaukee Area Technical College — Power Engineering and Boiler Operator (Technical Diploma)

• Address: 700 W State St, Milwaukee, WI 53233, United States
• Tel: +1 414-297-6282

On‑campus training at Oak Creek that teaches how to operate and control low‑ and high‑pressure boilers and auxiliary systems, while building the electrical, instrumentation, and maintenance skills that keep large facilities running safely and efficiently.

Program highlights

• Delivery & credential: In‑person Technical Diploma; August/January start dates.
• Curriculum focus (19 credits): Low‑ and High‑Pressure Boilers, Boiler Operation, Instrumentation & Controls (3 cr.), Electricity for Power Engineering, Blueprint Reading for Power Engineering, Plant Maintenance & HVAC Basics, Math for Power Engineers, and communication coursework.
• Outcomes: Follow industry safety standards, operate power‑engineering equipment, perform water‑treatment tests, and operate building controls.
• Stackable path: Earn the Boiler Operator certificate on the way to completing the diploma.

Skills for Success

• Math and Chemistry: Basic math and chemistry skills help students manage chemical blends and understand refining processes.
• Computer Skills: Students learn to use software to monitor refinery functions and follow technical instructions.
• Communication: Good communication skills help operators adjust processes and work with teams.

Industry Events

National Apprenticeship Week

• Live Webinars and Workshops: Students join webinars and workshops with employers during this annual virtual event.
• Networking: Participants build connections and learn about the industry.
• Skill Building: The event offers workshops and guidance to improve job skills.

Job Market and Career Prospects

• Strong Demand: Retirements create openings for new operators.
• Competitive Start: Entry-level jobs offer competitive pay and growth potential.
• Internship Benefits: Hands-on experience from internships boosts job readiness and employment opportunities.

Wisconsin is projected to see steady growth in refinery operator employment over the next decade. Although the workforce is relatively small, the percentage increase and consistent annual openings make this a state with stable opportunities.

• Employment (2022): 120 employees
• Projected employment (2032): 130 employees
• Projected growth (2022–2032): 8%
• Projected annual job openings (2022–2032): 10

Refinery Operator Salaries in Wisconsin

Area	Mean Hourly Wage	Mean annual wage	Hourly wage 10th percentile	Hourly wage 25th percentile	Hourly wage 75th percentile	Hourly wage 90th percentile
Wisconsin	$39.94	$83,070	$33.24	$38.13	$47.57	$50.17
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN	$51.13	$106,360	$40.48	$47.88	$51.14	$51.14
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI	$47.46	$98,720	$36.86	$47.46	$59.92	$61.04

Support and Guidance

• Academic Advising: Advisors help students choose classes and plan their careers.
• Extra Support: First-generation students receive additional help.
• Career Services: Schools offer resume advice and job placement assistance.
• Wellness Services: Counseling and emergency care support student well-being.

Local Refineries in Wisconsin

Superior Refining Company LLC, located in Superior, Wisconsin, is a key local refinery. The U.S. Energy Atlas lists this facility with a capacity of 50 units as of January 1, 2024. This refinery shows Wisconsin has an active oil refining industry—hands-on internships at local refineries like this help students gain practical experience.

Student Experiences

Past students say the training programs helped them gain essential skills and confidence. One student noted that the courses covered safety and process control well. Another praised the support staff for helping with course choices and payment plans.

Refinery operator training programs in Wisconsin give students a strong foundation in oil refinery operations. They cover essential topics, offer practical experience, and prepare students for promising job opportunities. If you want a career as a refinery operator, explore these programs. They provide the skills, support, and experience you need for success.